As women, we often face unique challenges when it comes to prioritizing ourselves and our own needs. The Enneagram, a model of personality that identifies nine different types, can provide insight into some of the specific obstacles we may face and how to overcome them.
For example, as Type Ones, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our strong sense of responsibility and desire for order and perfection. We may feel guilty taking time for ourselves or pursuing our own interests and may push ourselves too hard in pursuit of our goals. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on being true to our values and taking action to align our behavior with what we believe is right, even if it means putting ourselves first sometimes.
As Type Twos, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our tendency to prioritize others and their needs. We may feel like we are always giving and never receiving, and may have a hard time setting boundaries and saying no. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on supporting others in healthy ways and being attuned to our own needs and feelings.
As Type Threes, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our drive for achievement and our need to be productive and efficient. We may put pressure on ourselves to succeed and may have a hard time relaxing and taking time for ourselves. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on setting and working towards clear goals, and being efficient and productive in our pursuit of success, while also making time for rest and relaxation.
As Type Fours, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our focus on individuality and self-expression. We may feel like we need to be unique and special in order to be worthy of love and attention, and may have a hard time feeling satisfied with ourselves and our lives. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on staying true to ourselves and expressing our unique perspectives and talents, and on finding fulfillment and meaning in our lives, rather than constantly striving for something more.
As Type Fives, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our tendency to withdraw and focus on our own intellectual pursuits. We may feel like we don't need other people and may have a hard time forming close connections and relationships. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on learning and gaining insight, and on being open and receptive to others and their needs.
As Type Sixes, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our focus on security and stability. We may feel like we need to constantly worry and prepare for the worst, and may have a hard time taking risks and pursuing our own goals. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on building supportive relationships and creating a sense of safety and stability in our lives, and on taking steps to pursue our own interests and goals.
As Type Sevens, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our focus on adventure and possibilities. We may feel like we need to constantly be trying new things and seeking new experiences, and may have a hard time focusing on and committing to our own goals and priorities. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on staying open to new experiences and opportunities, while also maintaining a sense of focus and commitment to our own priorities and goals.
As Type Eights, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our focus on power and control. We may feel like we need to be strong and in charge in order to protect ourselves and others, and may have a hard time being vulnerable and admitting our own needs and weaknesses. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on being assertive and standing up for ourselves and others, while also being open and receptive to feedback and support.
As Type Nines, we may struggle with prioritizing ourselves because of our focus on peace and harmony. We may feel like we need to avoid conflict and keep the peace at all costs, and may have a hard time asserting our own needs and desires. To overcome this obstacle, we can focus on maintaining balance and connection with others, and on finding calm and tranquility in our daily lives, while also being open to change and growth.
Overall, the Enneagram can help us understand the specific obstacles we may face as women in prioritizing ourselves and provide insights into how we can overcome them. By being aware of our unique tendencies and motivations, we can take steps to prioritize ourselves and our own well-being.
I'm here for you if you want support or would like to work through how to keep yourself a priority,
Erin
Erin Slutsky
Accredited Enneagram Practitioner, Author, Speaker, Life Coach
"I believe ALL women have to potential to live the life they truly desire."